Latching System

ABSTRACT

Devices and methods based upon the concept of a split ring ( 604 ) having certain multiple interior angles ( 604   a,    604   b ) to engage a stem or post ( 608 ) having annular ring(s) with angular geometries that are complimentary to those of the split ring. The disclosure provides designs for a wide range of insertion and desertion forces between latch engagement stems and latch engagement bodies. Changes to insertion contact angles and contact area on engagement stems and corresponding changes to insertion contact angles and engagement areas on engagement bodies can significantly modify insertion forces required to engage various devices. Similarly, changes in degrees of angle between desertion angles and contact areas on engagement stems with corresponding changes in desertion angles and contact areas on engagement bodies will significantly modify the total desertion forces required to disengage various devices. Accordingly, the instant latching mechanism provides insertion and desertion forces that can be controlled independently of each other.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/358,667, filed Jan. 23, 2009, entitled “LATCHING SYSTEM,”which in turn, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 12/168,809, filed Jul. 7, 2008, entitled “RELEASABLE LOCKINGMECHANISM,” which, in turn, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/955,295, filed Dec. 12, 2007, entitled“RELEASABLE SPRING-LOCKING MECHANISM FOR RAPID WATERCRAFT FINATTACHMENT,” which in turn is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/655,651, filed Jan. 19, 2007, entitled“SURFBOARD MANUFACTURING APPARATUS,” which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 60/760,855, filed Jan. 20, 2006. Eachof these applications is herein incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

Provided herein are mechanisms whereby a locking force is used to securea device to another object.

2. Description of the Related Art

Users of watercraft boards generally only have two methods of securingfins to their board. In particular, the user has to use either a set ofscrews or a snap mechanism, to attach the fins. The screw method may bequite time consuming for the watercraft user to practice. Additionally,screw and snap mechanisms may necessitate the use of multiple movingparts, any of which are subject to rusting, failure, and stress fatigue.

Typically, toe and heel locking mechanisms, as described in the art,have a fin with a front end that has a detent or other feature that toesinto the front end of the fin box to lock it into position. At the rearof the fin is a latch, whereby a linear spring may be used to latch therear of fin into the fin box. A coil at one end of the spring moves intoa cavity location within the fin box. The tension in the spring holdsthe spring coil in the fin box rear detent in order for the fin to stayengaged and in position.

Toe and heel locking mechanisms are prone to failure, as the lockingforces are horizontal to the bottom plane of the watercraft. Other toeand heel variations have locking mechanism without springs. Typically, atoe is locked into position using a T-slot, or other configuration. Thefin typically has a forward pin, or other attachment piece, that isusually positioned at 90 degrees from the fin box. The pin movesdownward into the capture slot and the fin is then pushed forward sothat the toe of the fin is locked into position. Another detent at therear of the fin, or another T-pin or like capture piece, moves downwardinto the fin box slot and is locked down by a vertically moving lever ora cylindrically positioned cam lever.

Typically, in the variations mentioned above, an end-user has to providea counter force along the horizontal plane to disengage the lockingmechanisms. The reason this is undesirable is that in many watercraftsituations a user might encounter such horizontal forces from theenvironment, for example, the watercraft fins could be exposed to suchhorizontal forces from contact with kelp, rocks, ropes, wood, sand,other watercraft, etc., and such contact could trigger the unwantedpartial or full release of a fin. Therefore, prior art fin attachmentsystems may be prone to both mechanical and common use failures, andalso may be too complicated to allow an user to quickly and effectivelychange his or her fin choices to adapt to a given situation.

Conventional traction gear for footwear use a large number of individualtraction elements, such as cleats, that are attached to the outsole of ashoe. Generally, individual cleats must be screwed into the sole of ashoe, involving much time. Further, the use of screw mechanisms tosecure cleats to the soles of a shoe is not ideal inasmuch as the screwsmay loosen. Finally, conventional designs typically employ the use ofmetal attachment elements, which add considerable weight to thefootware.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect, embodiments disclosed herein comprise alatching system including a female receptacle and a post. The femalereceptacle can include a center aperture extending through the femalereceptacle in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the receptacle, a first portion defining a surface within thecenter aperture, wherein the first portion forms a first acute anglewith the longitudinal axis of the female receptacle, a second portiondefining a surface within the center aperture, wherein the secondportion forms a second acute angle with the longitudinal axis of thefemale receptacle, and a saddle portion disposed between the firstportion and the second portion. The post can have a longitudinal axisand include a first angular edge, wherein the first angular edge forms athird acute angle with the longitudinal axis of the post, a secondangular edge disposed proximal to the first angular edge, wherein thesecond angular edge forms a fourth acute angle with the longitudinalaxis of the post, a groove disposed proximal to the second angular edge,and a stem disposed proximal to the groove, wherein the stem and thedistal end of the second annular edge each have a greater maximumlateral thickness than the annular groove. The female receptacle can beconfigured to receive at least some of the post such that the annulargroove receives at least some of the saddle portion. The first, second,third, and fourth acute angles can be configured to control the forcerequired to insert the post into the female receptacle and the forcerequired to remove the post from the female receptacle.

According to a second aspect, embodiments disclosed herein comprise amethod of forming a latch connection between a first object and a secondobject, the method including, providing the female receptacle and postdisclosed in the previous paragraph, coupling the female receptacle withthe first object, coupling the post with the second object, andinserting at least some of the post into the center aperture of thefemale receptacle such that the annular groove receives at least atleast some of the saddle portion.

According to a third aspect, embodiments disclosed herein comprise alatching system including a female receptacle and a post. The femalereceptacle can include a center aperture extending through the femalereceptacle in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the receptacle, a first portion defining a surface within thecenter aperture, wherein the first portion forms a first acute anglewith the longitudinal axis of the female receptacle, a second portiondefining a surface within the center aperture, wherein the secondportion forms a second acute angle with the longitudinal axis of thefemale receptacle, and a saddle portion disposed between the firstportion and the second portion. The post can have a longitudinal axisand include a first angular edge, wherein the first angular edge forms athird acute angle with the longitudinal axis of the post, a secondangular edge disposed proximal to the first angular edge, wherein thesecond angular edge forms a fourth acute angle with the longitudinalaxis of the post, an annular groove disposed proximal to the secondangular edge, and a stem disposed proximal to the annular groove,wherein the stem and the distal end of the second annular edge each havea greater maximum lateral thickness than the annular groove. At leastsome of the post can be received by the female receptacle such that theannular groove receives at least some of the saddle portion

According to a fourth aspect, embodiments disclosed herein comprise alatching system including a split ring and a stem. The split ring caninclude an insertion angle to engage the insertion angle of a stem and adesertion angle to engage the desertion angle of a stem. The stem caninclude a plurality of annular rings with angular geometries that engagethe split ring, an insertion angle to engage the insertion angle of thesplit ring, and a desertion angle to engage the desertion angle of thesplit ring.

According to a fifth aspect, embodiments disclosed herein comprise alatching system including a female receptacle and a post. The femalereceptacle can have a longitudinal axis and include a first portiondefining a surface within a center aperture. The first portion can forma first acute angle with the longitudinal axis of the female receptacle.The female receptacle can also include a second portion defining asurface within the center aperture. The second portion can form a secondacute angle with the longitudinal axis of the female receptacle. Thepost can have a longitudinal axis and be configured to engage the femalereceptacle to form a latch connection therebetween. The post can includea first angular edge that forms a third acute angle with thelongitudinal axis of the post. The post can also include a secondangular edge that forms a fourth acute angle with the longitudinal axisof the post. Forces required to engage and disengage the post from thefemale receptacle can be controlled by the first, second, third, andfourth acute angles.

According to a sixth aspect, embodiments disclosed herein comprise alatching system including a female receptacle and a post. The femalereceptacle has a longitudinal axis and includes a first portion defininga surface within a center aperture. The first portion forms a firstacute angle with the longitudinal axis of the female receptacle. Thepost has a longitudinal axis and is configured to engage the femalereceptacle to form a latch connection therebetween. The post can alsoinclude a first angular edge that forms a second acute angle with thelongitudinal axis of the post. Desertion forces required to disengagethe post from the female receptacle can be controlled by the first andsecond acute angles.

According to a seventh aspect, embodiments disclosed herein comprise alatching system including a female receptacle and a post. The femalereceptacle can have a longitudinal axis and include a first portiondefining a surface within a center aperture. The first portion can forma first acute angle with the longitudinal axis of the female receptacle.The female receptacle can also include a second portion defining asurface within the center aperture. The second portion can form a secondacute angle with the longitudinal axis of the female receptacle. Thepost can have a longitudinal axis and be configured to engage the femalereceptacle to form a latch connection therebetween. The post can includea first angular edge that forms a third acute angle with thelongitudinal axis of the post. The post can also include a secondangular edge that forms a fourth acute angle with the longitudinal axisof the post. The force required to engage the post with the femalereceptacle can be less than the force required to disengage the postfrom the female receptacle.

Further aspects and features of the present disclosure will be apparentto persons of ordinary skill in the art, based upon the descriptionprovided herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention, in accordance with one or more variousembodiments, is described in detail with reference to the followingfigures. The drawings are provided for purposes of illustration only andmerely depict typical or example embodiments of the invention. Thesedrawings are provided to facilitate the reader's understanding of theinvention and shall not be considered limiting of the breadth, scope, orapplicability of the invention. It should be noted that for clarity andease of illustration these drawings are not necessarily made to scale.

Some of the figures included herein illustrate various embodiments ofthe invention from different viewing angles. Although the accompanyingdescriptive text may refer to such views as “top,” “bottom” or “side”views, such references are merely descriptive and do not imply orrequire that the invention be implemented or used in a particularspatial orientation unless explicitly stated otherwise.

These and other features and advantages of the various embodimentsdisclosed herein will be better understood with respect to the followingdescription and drawings, in which like numbers refer to like partsthroughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a top perspective view of a firstversion of a fin box in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the firstversion of the fin box of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a top perspective view of a secondversion of a fin box in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the secondversion of the fin box of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a cross sectional view of a wedgeshaped lip or barb being inserted into a fin cavity of a surfboardwatercraft in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a top perspective view of a thirdversion of a fin box in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the thirdversion of the fin box of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a top perspective view of a fourthversion of a fin box in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the fourthversion of the fin box of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a side view of a fin being attached toa fin box, and more particularly, posts of the fin being inserted intothe fin apertures of the fin box in accordance with one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a cross sectional view of the post andfin aperture of FIG. 10 illustrating a first version of the attachmentbetween the post and fin aperture.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a second version of the attachmentbetween the post and fin aperture in accordance with one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example canted spring design inaccordance with the invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example fin plug design inaccordance with the invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating another example fin plug design inaccordance with the invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a canted spring latch that depictspossible surf pin locations on a fin in accordance with the invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a side view of a fin having a splitring assembly of an embodiment of a locking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a side view of a fin having a splitpost assembly of an embodiment of a locking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a detailed view of a split postassembly of an embodiment of a locking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a skateboard assembly of an embodimentof a locking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a furniture assembly of an embodimentof a locking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIG. 22 is an exploded cross-sectional view of an embodiment of alocking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a lockingmechanism disclosed herein.

FIGS. 24A and 24B show a top view and a cross sectional view,respectively of an exemplary base housing for an embodiment of thelocking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIGS. 24C and 24D show a top view and a cross sectional view,respectively, of an exemplary base housing lid for an embodiment of thelocking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIGS. 24E and 24F show a top view and a cross sectional view,respectively, of an exemplary split ring for an embodiment of thelocking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIG. 24G depicts a cross sectional view of exemplary device (cleat) tobe used with the locking device disclosed herein.

FIG. 25 depicts an exploded perspective view of a single cleat accordingto one embodiment of the locking mechanism disclosed herein.

FIG. 26 depicts an exploded perspective view of a shoe sole and aplurality of cleats according to one embodiment of the locking mechanismdisclosed herein.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary device receptacle.

FIG. 28A is a diagram illustrating an exemplary cleat with a verticalextraction opening.

FIG. 28B is a diagram illustrating an exemplary cleat with a horizontalextraction opening.

FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary vertical extractordevice.

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary horizontal extractordevice.

FIG. 31A is a front view of an exemplary low profile cleat design.

FIG. 31B is an ISO view of an exemplary low profile cleat design.

FIG. 32A is a front view of an exemplary spike cleat.

FIG. 32B is an ISO view of an exemplary spike cleat.

FIG. 33A is a diagram illustrating an exemplary latching system.

FIG. 33B is a diagram illustrating a detailed view of an exemplarylatching system.

FIG. 34A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an exemplarysplit ring configured to form a latch connection with a post.

FIG. 34B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the split ring of FIG.34A.

FIG. 34C is a diagram illustrating a top plan view of the split ring ofFIG. 34A.

FIG. 34D is a diagram illustrating a bottom plan view of the split ringof FIG. 34A.

FIG. 35A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an exemplarysplit ring configured to form a latch connection with a post.

FIG. 35B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the split ring of FIG.35A.

FIG. 36A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an exemplarysplit ring configured to form a latch with a post.

FIG. 36B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the split ring of FIG.36A.

FIG. 37A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an exemplarysplit ring configured to form a latch connection with a post.

FIG. 37B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the split ring of FIG.37A.

FIG. 38A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an exemplarysplit ring configured to form a latch connection with a post.

FIG. 38B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the split ring of FIG.38A.

FIG. 39A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a split ringwith a split ring assist.

FIG. 39B is a diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of the splitring of FIG. 39A.

FIG. 39C is a diagram illustrating a top plan view of the split ring ofFIG. 39A.

FIG. 40A is a diagram illustrating a top plan view of a square ringwithout a split out.

FIG. 40B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the square ring ofFIG. 40A.

FIG. 41A is a diagram illustrating a top plan view of a square splitring.

FIG. 41B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the split ring of FIG.41A.

FIG. 42A is a diagram illustrating a top plan view of a round ringwithout a split out.

FIG. 42B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the ring of FIG. 42A.

FIG. 43A is a diagram illustrating a top perspective view of a housingfor a split ring.

FIG. 43B is a diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of thehousing of FIG. 43A.

FIG. 43C is a diagram illustrating a side view of the housing of FIG.43A.

FIG. 43D is a diagram illustrating a front view of the housing of FIG.43A.

FIG. 44A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a housing thatincludes a split ring and configured to form a latch connection with apost.

FIG. 44B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the housing of FIG.44A.

FIG. 44C is a diagram illustrating a front view of the housing of FIG.44A.

FIG. 44D is a diagram illustrating a bottom view of the housing of FIG.44A.

FIG. 45A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a post with awheel coupled to the proximal end of the post.

FIG. 45B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the post with wheel ofFIG. 45A.

FIG. 45C is a diagram illustrating a front view of the post with wheelof FIG. 45A.

FIG. 46A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a latch housingconfigured to receive a post to form a latch connection.

FIG. 46B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the latch housing ofFIG. 46A.

FIG. 46C is a diagram illustrating a top plan view of the latch housingof FIG. 46A.

FIGS. 47A-47F are diagrams illustrating various embodiments of postsconfigured to engage at least one split ring to form a latch connection.

FIG. 48A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a post coupledwith a castor.

FIG. 48B is a diagram illustrating a front view of the post and castorof FIG. 48A.

FIG. 48C is a diagram illustrating a side view of the post and castor ofFIG. 48A.

FIG. 49A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a housingcoupled with a round post.

FIG. 49B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the housing and postof FIG. 49A.

FIG. 49C is a diagram illustrating a top view of the housing and post ofFIG. 49A.

FIG. 50A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a housingcoupled with a hexagonal post.

FIG. 50B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the housing and postof FIG. 50A.

FIG. 50C is a diagram illustrating a top view of the housing and post ofFIG. 50A.

FIG. 51A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a housing witha split ring configured to receive a post to form a latch connection.

FIG. 51B is a diagram illustrating a front view of the housing and splitring of FIG. 51A.

FIG. 51C is a diagram illustrating a top view of the housing of FIG.51A.

FIG. 52A is a diagram illustrating a top perspective view of a housingthat includes a split ring formed therein.

FIG. 52B is a diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of thehousing of FIG. 52A.

FIG. 52C is a diagram illustrating a front view of the housing of FIG.52A.

FIG. 52D is a diagram illustrating a side view of the housing of FIG.52A.

FIG. 53A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a post coupledwith a face element.

FIG. 53B is a diagram illustrating a side view of the post and faceelement of FIG. 53A.

FIG. 53C is a diagram illustrating a bottom view of the post and faceelement of FIG. 53A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments disclosed herein relate to attachment methods and devicesthat utilize locking forces to securely attach a device to an object yetfacilitate simple and easy detachability. The attachment methods anddevices disclosed herein are applicable to a wide range of objects anddevices. As discussed below, the attachment methods and devicesdisclosed herein can be advantageously used to couple a device to anobject, wherein the device extends vertically from the object whenattached, and is likely to encounter horizontal forces when attached tothe object. For example, the attachment mechanisms disclosed herein canbe used to attach a fin to a surfboard or other watercraft, a cleat to ashoe, a wheel truck to a rollerskate, rollerblade, or skateboard deck, ablade to an ice skate, components of components of furniture, or variousother device/object pairs.

As discussed below, some embodiments disclosed herein relate toattachment devices and methods that utilize spring locking means, e.g.,canted coiled springs, cantilevered springs, split ring springs, splitpin springs, or the like.

Before describing the invention in detail, it is useful to describe anexample environment with which the invention can be implemented. Onesuch example is that of a surfboard. A surfboard is a type of watercraftthat is generally longer than it is wide. The board generally forms abuoyant deck that a surfer may stand on while surfing. It will beunderstood, however, that surfboards may also for used for paddling,e.g., while sitting, laying, etc. Additionally, other methods ofpropulsion may be attached to the surfboard, such as a sail, e.g., forwindsurfing. Many modern surfboards may be made of polystyrene orpolyurethane foam. The boards may be covered with one or more layers offiberglass cloth and a resin such as polyester or epoxy resin.

Another environment with which the invention can be implemented is thatof a shoe cleat design. A metal threaded component located onconventional cleats and like components in soles add significant weightto a shoe. Shoe weight and athletic performance are integrally related;the lighter the shoe the less force and thus the less energy is requiredby the athlete to maneuver. Less weight in the shoe assists the athletein moving the foot and leg from one position to another more quickly.Shoe weight is a well-recognized property by athletes as critical toperformance and is understood by shoe manufacturers. Footwaremanufacturers describe and advertise shoe weight reductions as a pointof comparison in the selling of their shoes against competitors.

Metal cleats and their corresponding metal threaded inserts can beuncomfortable to the wearer of the shoe particularly over time as thepolymers used to make the shoe sole begin to yield to the force of themetal studs. In time, the metal components become more prominent pointsof pressure between the bottom of the foot and the threaded cleat stud.This is not only uncomfortable, but can be a source of injury to thefoot.

A threaded cleat made from metal or plastic also may significantly limitpotential design geometries of the cleat. Current cleat designs areconstrained to circular cone shaped geometries due to the “threading in”requirement of a screw. Alternative geometries in cleat shapes areimpractical. Attempting repeatable alignment of the cleat afterthreading it into the shoe sole is unattainable.

All metallic components, particularly those located in the bottom of ashoe will be exposed over time to both alkaline and acidic materials inwater borne environments and thus subject those components to corrosion.Fertilizers and other chemicals typically found on athletic playingfields can have significant concentrations of both high pH (alkaline)and/or low pH (acidic) salts. These salts in combination with moistureand metal provide the anodic and cathodic requirements for deteriorationof the metal. Plated steel or brass components most commonly used ascleat materials are highly vulnerable to galvanic corrosion.

The disclosure herein is, thus, related to both a cleat and a cleatlatching mechanism, which may be located in the sole of a shoe and madefrom various materials, including all plastic materials. None of thesematerials are subject to galvanic corrosion and thus will not wear ordenigrate over time from exposure to chemicals, salts, or water.

Removing the metal from cleat components reduces the contribution of thetypical weight of the cleats by more than two thirds. With an average of14 to 18 cleats in any given shoe design, this weight reduction canprovide a meaningful potential improvement in athletic performance.

As mentioned above, various embodiments of the attachment devices andmethods disclosed herein may be used in conjunction with surfboards andother watercraft. In some embodiments, the fin attachment devices andmethods disclosed herein are based upon the concept of spring locking.In some embodiments, the spring locking may be part of the surfboard.For example, in one embodiment, a canted spring can be part of a housingbuilt into a surfboard. In some embodiments, the housing can receive ashaft that may be held in place by the canted spring. In anotherembodiment, the canted spring can be part of the fin assembly. Incertain embodiments, the systems and methods described herein are based,in part, on the concept of vertical, rather than of horizontal, lockingforces for attachment of a device to an object, e.g., a fin device towatercraft object, a cleat, wheel truck, or blade device to the sole ofa shoe, a toe plate device comprising a plurality of cleats to the soleof a shoe, a wheel truck device to a skateboard, components offurniture, or the like.

From time-to-time, the present invention is described herein in terms ofexemplary environments, e.g., water. Description in terms of theseenvironments is provided to allow the various features and embodimentsof the invention to be portrayed in the context of an exemplaryapplication. After reading this description, it will become apparent toone of ordinary skill in the art how the invention can be implemented indifferent and alternative environments.

Although the figures provided herein are for the purposes ofillustrating a fin locking system for watercraft, a cleat locking systemfor a shoe, a wheel-truck locking mechanism for a skateboard deck, and alocking mechanism for components of furniture, the particularembodiments disclosed herein and illustrated in the figures are for thepurpose of illustration only, and should not be construed as limitingthe scope of the embodiments disclosed herein.

Fin Attachment Means

FIGS. 1-19 illustrate various embodiments wherein the attachmentmechanism disclosed herein is used for attaching a fin device to awatercraft object, e.g., a surfboard. FIGS. 1-9 illustrate fourconfigurations of fin boxes 150, 170, 200, and 220, which are discussedfurther below. In some embodiments, during a machining or routing step,a corresponding fin cavity may be formed within the watercraft andexposed through an exterior skin (e.g., first side) of the watercraft toreceive the fin boxes 150, 170, 200, 220. Some embodiments may alsoinclude a leash plug. In some embodiments, protective caps may beinserted into the fin apertures to prevent coating material and paintfrom entering the fin apertures.

As discussed above, FIGS. 1-9 illustrate four different versions of thefin box 150, 170, 200, and 220. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a topperspective view of a first version of a fin box in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a bottomperspective view of the first version of the fin box of FIG. 1.Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, a first version of the fin box 150 mayhave a round configuration. The fin box 150 has a lower portion 152 andan upper portion 154 that is coaxially aligned with the lower portion152. The lower portion 152 may have a coarse pitched thread 156 formedon a cylindrical exterior surface 158 of the lower portion 152. Theupper portion 154 may have a frusto-conical surface 160 with a radiallyextending flange 162. A matching fin cavity may be fit into thefrusto-conical surface 160, flange 162 and the cylindrical exteriorsurface 158. To attach the fin box 150 to the watercraft, the thread 156of the fin box 150 may be screwed into the fin cavity. In oneembodiment, two fin cavities may be formed in the watercraft such thatfin apertures 164 of the fin boxes 150 are approximately 1.5 inchesapart from each other to receive corresponding posts of a fin.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a top perspective view of a secondversion of a fin box in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the secondversion of the fin box of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating across sectional view of a wedge shaped lip or barb being inserted into afin cavity of a surfboard watercraft in accordance with one embodimentof the invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, a second version of the fin box 170includes an elongated box configuration with rounded distal ends. Anupper portion 172 of the fin box 170 may have a radially extendingflange 174. The radially extending flange 174 includes a plurality ofthrough holes 176 or apertures formed therethrough about the entireperiphery of the flange 174. A bottom portion 178 of the fin box 170 mayhave a reduced size base 180 with a barb or a wedge shaped lip 182 at abottom end of the fin box 170, as depicted in FIG. 5. It is alsocontemplated that the reduced sized base may have two or more (e.g.,four, etc.) barbs or wedge shaped lips 182. In one embodiment, the wedgeshaped lip 182 may protrude out laterally about 0.060 inches from thereduced sized base 180. The wedge shaped lip 182 is angled such that thewedge 182 permits the bottom portion 178 to be inserted into the fincavity 190 machined into the bottom surface of the watercraft, but doesnot permit the withdrawal of the fin box 170 therefrom. In someembodiments, an adhesive or quick setting epoxy 192 may be appliedbetween the fin box 170 and the fin cavity 190.

The fin cavity 190 formed in the watercraft may be sized slightlysmaller than the outer periphery of the wedge lip 182 but slightlylarger than the outer periphery of the reduced size base 180, as shownin FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the upper portion 172 of the fin box 170may have a protrusion 186 that is about 0.0050″ above a top surface 188of the radially extending flange 174. In this manner, the coating coversthe flange 174 and may be flush with the protrusion. The fin box 170 mayhave two circular fin apertures 184 disposed through the protrusion 186.In some embodiments, these fin apertures 184 may be spaced about 1.5″from each other to receive corresponding posts of the fin.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a top perspective view of a thirdversion of a fin box in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the thirdversion of the fin box of FIG. 6. Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, athird version of the fin box 200 may have a similar configuration as thesecond version of the fin box 170. For example, the third version of thefin box 200 may have a wedge shaped lip 202 at a bottom outer peripheryof the lower portion 204. The third version of the fin box 200 may havea different configuration from the second version of the fin box 170 inthat the radially extending flange 206 does not have a plurality ofthrough holes; rather, the radially extending flange 206 has at leastone annular groove 208 on its top surface.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a top perspective view of a fourthversion of a fin box in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the fourthversion of the fin box of FIG. 8. Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, afourth version of the fin box 220 may have a similar configuration asthe third version of the fin box 200. For example, the fourth version ofthe fin box 220 may have a wedge shaped lip 222 at a bottom outerperiphery of the lower portion 224. In addition, a top surface of theradially extending flange 226 may have at least one annular groove 228.However, unlike the third version of the fin box 200, a frusto-conicalsurface 230 may join the radially extending flange 226 and the base 232.

Referring now to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, the posts 270 of thewatercraft fin 272 may be attached to the fin apertures 210 of the finbox 200. FIG. 10 illustrates the third version of the fin box 200 but itis contemplated that the manner in which the posts 270 are attached tothe fin apertures 210 may be employed in the other versions of the finbox 150, 170, and 220.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a cross sectional view of the post andfin aperture of FIG. 10 illustrating a first version of the attachmentbetween the post and fin aperture. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating asecond version of the attachment between the post and fin aperture inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS.11 and 12, which illustrate two versions for attaching the posts 270 ofthe watercraft fin 272 to the fin aperture 210 of the fin box 200, thepost 270, may be sized and configured to slide within fin aperture 210of the fin box 200.

As illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, in one embodiment, the outer diameter274 of the post 270 is smaller than an inner diameter 276 of the finaperture 210. The post 270 is also formed with a first undercut groove278A and 278B, which circumscribes the post 270. In one embodiment, thefin aperture 210 may be formed with a second undercut groove 280, whichmay be aligned to the first undercut groove 278A and 278B.

In some embodiments, the undercut grooves 278A, 278B, and 280 may be cutsuch that the groove is less than half of the thickness of a coil in thecanted-coil spring 282. In some embodiments, the undercut grooves 278A,278B, and 280 may be cut so that the total thickness of the grooves 278Aand 280 or 278B and 280 are approximately the same as the thickness of acoil in the canted-coil spring 282. In some embodiments, the dimensionsvary from implementation to implementation; however, these dimensionsare selected so that the canted-coil spring provides enough pressure tohold, for example, a fin device to a watercraft, such as a surfboard.

A canted-coil spring 282 may be inserted into the second undercut groove280. In some embodiments, a canted coil spring may be a round-wirespring with inclining (canted), elliptical coils that deflectindependently when compressed. The entire spring 282 responds wheneverany portion of the coil is deflected, permitting uniform loading at eachcontact point. By way of example and not limitation, a canted-coilspring 282 sold under the trademark BALSEAL™ Engineering of FoothillRanch, Calif. may be inserted into the second undercut groove 280.

In FIG. 11, the post 270 may be inserted into the fin aperture 210 andremoved therefrom by pushing and pulling the post 270 into and out ofthe fin aperture 210. The post 270 illustrated in FIG. 12 may also beinserted and removed from the fin aperture but requires a greater pushin force and pull out force compared to the structure shown in FIG. 11.The reason is that the first undercut groove 278A shown in FIG. 11 isbeveled, whereas the first undercut groove 278B shown in FIG. 12 issquared off. In use, the post 270 may be inserted into the fin aperture210. Upon insertion, the outer diameter 274 of the post 270 pushes thecanted-coil spring 282 outward until the canted coil spring 282 isseated in the first undercut groove 278A, B. The bevel of the firstundercut groove 278A shown in FIG. 11 permits a user to pull the post270 out of fin aperture 210 with less force compared to the post 270 andfin aperture 210 shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example canted spring design inaccordance with the invention. Referring now to FIG. 13, a canted-coilspring 300 is illustrated. As discussed above, in some embodiments, thecanted-coil spring 300 may be a round-wire spring with inclining(canted), elliptical coils that deflect independently when compressed.The entire spring 300 responds whenever any portion of the coil isdeflected, permitting uniform loading at each contact point.

In one embodiment, the canted spring 300 includes a housing 302. Thecanted-coil spring 300 may be selected to fit in a groove or channel inthe housing 302. Additionally, the housing 302 may be configured toreceive a shaft 304. In one embodiment, the post may be part of a fin.In another embodiment, the post may be configured to be attached to afin. In some embodiments, the shaft 304 can include a groove 306. Whenthe shaft 304 is inserted in the fin box 302, canted-coil spring 300 canhold the shaft 304 in place by contacting the groove 306. The exampleillustrated in FIG. 13 is similar to the examples illustrated in FIGS.11 and 12, and includes various measurements and tolerances. It will beunderstood that the embodiment depicted in FIG. 13 is exemplary and forillustrative purposes only, and that other canted spring sizes andshapes can be used with different housing sizes and shapes or differentshaft sizes and shapes, without departing from the scope of theembodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary fin box design inaccordance with the invention. Referring now to FIG. 14, fin box 400 isillustrated. Fin box 400 includes thread 402, which may comprise acourse thread used to secure a fin receptor into a watercraft. Thecoarse thread can also be referred to as a “wide auger” thread. Whilethe example illustrated in FIG. 14 includes specific dimensions, it willbe understood that many other sizes and shapes of fin plugs can be usedin conjunction with the invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating another exemplary fin box design inaccordance with the invention. Referring now to FIG. 15, non-circularfin box 500 is illustrated. By using a fin plug that is not circular,e.g., fin box 500, it may be less likely that the fin box 500 willrotate. Accordingly, a fin attached to the fin box 500 will be lesslikely to rotated and the fin may retain some, e.g., predeterminedalignment with the watercraft to which it is attached. While the exampleillustrated in FIG. 15 includes specific dimensions, it will beunderstood that many other sizes and shapes of fin plugs can be used inconjunction with the systems and methods described herein.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary canted spring latch thatillustrates possible surf pin locations on a fin in accordance with thesystems and methods described herein. Referring now to FIG. 16, a fin500 is attached to a watercraft using a canted-coil spring 502 attachedto a post 504. The canted-coil spring 502 and post 504 are dimensionedto slide into a receiving portion of a watercraft and thereby be securedin place.

The example embodiment of FIG. 16 is similar to the example embodimentof FIG. 10. As illustrated in FIGS. 10, 11, and 12, canted-coil spring282 can be positioned inside of a fin aperture 210. In this way, thecanted-coil spring 282 can engage the post 270 when it is inserted intothe fin aperture 210.

Returning to FIG. 16, in some embodiments, the canted-coil spring 502can be attached to the post 504. In other words, the position of thecanted-coil springs 282 and 502 are swapped between the two embodiments.As illustrated in FIGS. 10, 11, 12, and 16, a pair of posts 270 or 504and canted-coil springs 282 or 502 can be used. In this way, the fin272, 500 is less likely to rotate within its attachment mechanism whenpositioned on a watercraft. As illustrated in FIG. 16, in someembodiments, a bar 506 can be used to make the fin 500 less likely torotate.

In another embodiment, the post(s) can be attached to a watercraft,while the receptacle that receives the posts can be part of or attachedto the device to be attached to the watercraft. For example, in oneembodiment, a watercraft can include a pair of posts inserted intoreceptacles in a fin securing the fin to the watercraft using thecanted-coil springs. It will be understood that the receptacles in thefin can, in some embodiments, be part of the fin, while in otherembodiments, the receptacles can be a separate assembly attached to thefin.

FIGS. 17-19 illustrate various embodiments wherein the attachmentmethods and devices are used for attaching a fin device to a surf boardobject. Referring to FIG. 17, one embodiment of a split ring assembly1700 may include an post 1701 having a annular groove 1705 configured topass through a housing lid 1702 and receive a spring, such as split ringspring 1703 and rest in a housing 1704 having a inner cavity to receivethe post 1701. In accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, thepost 1701 is comprised of a plurality of components such as, forexample, a top portion 1710, a top angle 1711, a middle groove 1712, abottom angle 1713, and a bottom portion 1714. The annular groove 1705made up of the top angle 1711, middle groove 1712 and bottom angle 1713.The top portion 1710 having means to attach to a surface of an object byscrew, adhesive or other means. The top angle 1711 specifically designedto be complimentary with the top inner angle of the split ring 1703. Achange in angle conditions affects the insertion and desertion forces ofthe locking mechanism. The wider the diameter and the thicker the splitring 1703, the stronger the hold achieved by the locking mechanism. Thegroove middle 1712 is configured to make contact with the split ringonce locking has been achieved. The bottom angle 1713 specificallydesigned to be complimentary with the inside bottom inner angle of thesplit ring 1703. The bottom portion 1714 designed to hold the split ring1703 in place to provide a means for locking. The housing lid 1702 maybe designed to permit the post 1701 to pass and receive a split ring1703. In one embodiment, a housing lid 1702 may rest on top, at midpoint, or at the bottom of a split ring 1703 to permit the post 1701 toreceive the split ring 1703. The housing lid 1702 may be modified toallow for non-rotation between two objects being secured by the use ofthe post 1701. The split ring 1703 is circular in shape and has aportion cut off, to permit for expansion when the post 1701 receives andmakes contact with the split ring 1703. The split ring 1703 may have aflat top surface 1715 and flat bottom surface 1716. Also, the split ring1703 may have a flat or convex outer surface 1717. The split ring 1703may have a flat inner surface (not shown), an angled inner surface (notshown) that permits the most surface area contact with the annulargroove 1705. The housing 1704 is configured to receive at least the post1701 and the split ring 1703. The housing 1704 may be prefabricated toreceive the elements mentioned above. Also, the housing 1704 may bedesigned to rest in flush configuration, a-top, or below the housing forthe housing. FIG. 17 illustrates a fin having two posts 1701, onehousing lid 1702 prefabricated for two posts 1701, two split rings 1703,a single housing 1704 having a shaped cavity resting in a flushconfiguration with the surfboard that receives two posts 1701 to providea vertical locking mechanism that permits for the fins to be snapped-onor snapped-off with relative ease. The disclosed embodiment does notrequire the use of screws in order to secure the fin to the surfboard,but rather the use of the post 1701 and the split ring 1703 to provide avertical locking mechanism. The vertical locking mechanism provides alighter surfboard and the ability to quickly modify a surfboard finconfiguration by permitting for snap-on and snap-off fins withoutrequiring any external tools for assembly.

FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of a fin having a split post assembly.In one embodiment of a split post assembly 1800 may include a split post1801 having a plurality of mouths 1813 configured to reside in thecavity of the housing 1704 having a contoured shape to receive the splitpost 1801. In accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 18, the splitpost 1801 is comprised of a plurality of components such as, forexample, a top portion 1809, a first groove 1810, a thick portion 1811,a second groove 1812, and a plurality of mouths 1813. The top portion1809 having means to attach to a surface of an object by screw, adhesiveor other means. The first groove 1810 designed to have surface areacontact with the first housing lid 1802 and support a vertical lockingmechanism. The first groove 1810 may comprise complimentary angles tofit the cavity of the housing 1704. The thick portion 1811 is designedto rest between the first housing lid 1802 and the second housing lid1803 and support a vertical locking mechanism. The thick portion 1811may comprise complimentary angles to fit the cavity of the housing 1704.The second groove 1812 is designed to have the most surface area contactthe cavity of the housing 1704 and support a vertical locking mechanism.the second groove 1812 may comprise complimentary angles to fit thecivility of the housing 1704. The plurality of mouths 1813 are designedto pass through and rest in between the cavity of the housing 1704. Theplurality of mouths 1813 may be flexed inward for insertion and mayautomatically expand outward and rest into place during insertion intothe housing 1704 to provide a secure vertical locking mechanism. In oneembodiment, the split post 1801 may have two mouths 1813, wherein thecircular lower portion of the split post 1801 is divided or split inhalf to allow two flexible mouths 1813. In another embodiment, the splitpost 1801 may have four mouths 1813, wherein the circular lower portionof the split post 18001 is divided or split to four quadrants to allowfor four flexible mouths 1813. The first housing lid 1802 and the secondhousing lid 1803 are part of the cavity of the housing and are designedto have a complimentary shape to the first groove 1810 and the secondgroove 1812 of the post 1801. The first housing lid 1802 makes contactwith the first groove 1810 of the split post 1801. The second housinglid 1803 makes contact with the second groove 1812 of the split post1801 as shown in FIG. 18 having small partitions to permit the pluralityof mouths 1813 to flex. The housing 1704 is configured to receive, atleast in part, the split post 1801. The housing 1704 may beprefabricated to receive the elements mentioned above in the descriptionof FIG. 18. Also, the housing 1704 may be designed to rest in flushconfiguration, a-top, or below the housing for the housing. FIG. 18illustrates a fin having two split posts 1801 and a single housing 1704resting in a flush configuration with the surfboard that receives twosplit posts 1801 to provide a vertical locking mechanism that permitsfor the fins to be snapped-on or snapped-off with relative ease. Thesplit post 1801 may be snapped-off by compressing the plurality ofmouths 1813 inward to decrease the contact with the surface area of thehousing 1704 to permit for release. The split post 1801 may besnapped-on by compressing the plurality of mouths 1813 inward to permitinsertion into the contoured cavity of the housing 1704, whereby theplurality of mouths 1813 automatically flex outward, make contact withthe cavity of the housing 1704 and lock securely into place.

FIG. 19 is a detailed view of a split post assembly. FIG. 19 provides adetailed view of some the elements described in FIG. 18. As previouslydescribed, the split post 1801 comprises a top portion 1809 thatattaches to an object, a first groove 1810 that is fitted for the firsthousing lid 1802 (not shown), a thick portion 1811 that provides lockingsupport, a second groove 1812 that is fitted for the second housing lid1803 (not shown), and a plurality of mouths 1813 configured to flexinward for insertions and desertion and outward during locking, as shownin FIG. 19.

FIG. 20 illustrates a skateboard locking assembly. One embodiment of theskateboard locking assembly 2000 may include a skateboard lower portion2005, a post 1701, a housing lid 1702, a split ring 1703, and housing1704. The skateboard lower portion 2005 may comprise at least one wheel2006 and one base 2007 to be attached to the skateboard surface portion2008 by a vertical locking mechanism. The base 2007 may be attached tothe post 1701 by adhesive, screw or other means. In accordance with theembodiment shown in FIG. 20, the post 1701 is comprised of a pluralityof components such as, for example, a top portion 1710, a top angle1711, a middle groove 1712, a bottom angle 1713, and a bottom portion1714. The annular groove 1705 may be made up of the top angle 1711,middle groove 1712 and bottom angle 1713. The top portion 1710 havingmeans to attach to the base 2007 by screw, adhesive or other means. Thetop angle 1711 specifically designed to be complimentary with the insidetop angle of the split ring 1703. The groove middle 1712 configured tomake contact and receive the split ring. The bottom angle 1713specifically designed to be complimentary with the inside bottom angleof the split ring 1703. The bottom portion 1714 designed to hold thesplit ring 1703 in place to provide a means for locking. The housing lid1702 may be designed to permit the post 1701 to pass and receive a splitring 1703. In one embodiment, a housing lid 1702 may be rest on top, atmid point, or at the bottom of a split ring 1703 to permit the post 1701to receive the split ring 1703. The split ring 1703 is circular in shapeand has a portion cut off, to permit for expansion when the post 1701makes contact the split ring 1703. The split ring 1703 may have a flattop surface 1715 and flat bottom surface 1716. Also, the split ring 1703may have a flat or convex outer surface 1717. The split ring 1703 mayhave a flat inner surface or an angled inner surface that permits themost surface area contact with the specific angular dimensions of theannular groove 1705. A hole on the skateboard surface portion 2008, orthe housing 1704, is configured to receive at least the post 1701, thehousing lid 1702 and the split ring 1703. FIG. 20 illustrates askateboard having two skateboard lower portions 2005, each skateboardlower portion 2005 configured for four posts 1701, four housing lids1702, four split rings 1703, and four housings 1704 or holes to receivefour posts 1701 to provide a vertical locking mechanism that permits forthe skateboard lower portion 2005 to be snapped-on or snapped-off withrelative ease. An attached skateboard base 2007 may be detached from askateboard surface portion 2008 by applying a vertical force thatdecouples the post 1701 from the housing lid 1702 and the split ring1703. Also, a detached skateboard base 2007 may be attached to askateboard surface portion 2008 using a vertical force to couple thebase 2007 having a post 1701 to the housing lid 1702 and the split ring1703 to make surface area contact within the housing 1704 having aprefabricated cavity.

FIG. 21 illustrates a furniture locking assembly. One embodiment of thefurniture locking assembly may include a wood base A 2106, a screw 2105,an post 1701, a housing lid 1702, a split ring 1703, a housing 1704, anda wood board B 2107. The wood base A 2106 may be configured to receiveat least one post 1701 by means of a screw 2105 or other attachmentmeans. The screw 2105 may be made of metal, plastic, wood, or anycomparable material to permit for attachment of board A 2106 and board B2107. The post 1701 is attached to the wood board A 2106 by means of ascrew 2105 or any other alternative attachment means such as adhesive orwelding, for example. The post 1701 configured to pass through a housinglid 1702 and be coupled to the inside surface area of the split ring1703 and make contact with the indentations within wood board B 2107, orthe housing 1704. The housing lid 1702 has a flat top and bottom portionand designed to allow the post 1701 to pass through to interface withthe split ring 1703. The housing lid may rest a-top, at mid point, orbelow the split ring 1703. The split ring 1703 having a circularconfiguration and a cut-out portion to permit the split ring to expandin during insertion of the post 1701 and contract during removal of thepost 1701. Also, the split ring 1703 having an angled inside portion andconvex or flat outer portion. Also, the split ring 1703 having a flattop and bottom portion. The housing 1704 configured to receive at leastthe post 1701, the housing lid 1702, and the split ring 1703. Also, thehousing 1704 may be designed to rest in flush configuration, a-top, orbelow the housing for the housing. FIG. 21 illustrates a furniturelocking assembly comprising at a wood board A 2106, at least two posts1701, two housing lids 1702, two split rings 1703 and a housing 1704having two imbedded portions inside of wood board B 2107 to provide avertical locking mechanism that permits for wood board A 2106 to besnapped-on or snapped-off with relative ease to wood board B 2107.

Cleat Attachment Means

FIGS. 22-26 illustrate various embodiments wherein the attachmentmethods and devices are used for attaching a cleat device to a shoeobject. Referring to FIG. 22, one embodiment of a cleat assembly 600 caninclude a housing 602 with an interior cavity 618 configured to receivea spring, such as a split ring spring 604. In accordance with theembodiment shown in FIG. 22, the interior cavity 618 of the housing 602can be configured such that a split ring spring 604 sits fully withinthe interior cavity 618, with the cavity and the hole of the split ringspring 604 being coaxially aligned. In some embodiments, the interiorcavity 618 of the housing 602 is configured such that a housing lid 606with an aperture 620 also sits within the interior cavity 618 of thehousing 602. The interior cavity 618, the aperture of the split ring 604and the aperture of the housing lid 606 can be coaxially aligned. In theembodiment depicted in FIG. 22, the housing 602, the split ring spring604, and the housing lid 606 together form the device receptacle 610.The diameter of the interior cavity 618 in which the split ring spring604 sits is larger than the diameter of the split ring spring 604, inorder to accommodate expansion of the split ring spring 604, for examplewhen the device 608 is inserted into the device receptacle 610. Theskilled artisan will appreciate that, although the components of thedevice receptacle 610 are depicted in FIG. 22 as being separate, thattwo or more of the components can, in some embodiments, be integral.

In some embodiments, the hosing lid and the housing are fixed or sealedtogether, for example, using glue, a threading mechanism (see, e.g. FIG.25, discussed below), or any other means known by those skilled in theart appropriate for the intended purpose. The split ring spring 604 cansit within the interior cavity 618 of the sealed device receptacle 610.

As shown in FIG. 22, the top and bottom of the inside edge 624 of thesplit ring spring 604 that forms the center hole 612 can be beveled orangled at the top and/or bottom surface. For example, in someembodiments, the inside edge 624 a, 624 b of the hole 612 of the splitring spring 604 can be angled at a 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 40°, 45°, 50°,55°, 60°, 65°, 70°, 75°, 80°, 85°, 90°, 95°, 100°, 120°, or greaterangle. In preferred embodiments, the inside edge 624 a, 624 b of thehole 612 of the split ring spring 604 form a 90° angle. In someembodiments, the angles of the top 624 a and bottom edges 624 b of thehole 612 of the split ring spring 604 are different. Any split ringspring 604 can be used in the embodiments disclosed herein, for examplefrom commercially available sources, or specifically manufactured forthe attachment devices disclosed herein according to methods known tothose skilled in the art.

As shown in FIG. 22, the device 608, e.g., the cleat shown in FIG. 22,has a top portion 616 and a bottom portion comprising a post 622, whichis inserted through the aperture 626 of the housing lid 606 of thedevice receptacle 610, through the hole 612 in the split ring spring604, and into the interior cavity 618 of the housing 602. The post 622can have an annular groove 628. Preferably, the groove 628 is defined byangular edges 630 a, 630 b, wherein the angle of the edges of the grooveare complementary to the angles of the edges 624 a, 624 b that definethe interior hole 612 of the split ring spring 604, such that when thepost 622 is inserted into the interior cavity 618 of the devicereceptacle 610, the split ring spring 604 rests around the groove 628,as shown in FIG. 23. In some embodiments, the annular groove 628 is cutso that the total thickness of the groove 648 is approximately the sameas the thickness 646 of the split ring spring 604.

The disclosed invention does not require the use of threads. Cleats asshown in FIG. 22 are plugged into place rather than threaded into place.This provides shoe designers an unlimited range of possible cleatgeometries. Alignment of the cleat is provided for in the design of theshoe sole or the cleat spring housing.

The material used for the insole latching mechanism is, preferably, ahigh impact, high strength polymer designed to be used as a spring. Thespring 604 used in this invention is basically a split ring design withan interior configuration matched for the engagement and latching to theconfiguration of the cleat stem or post 622. Changes to these matinggeometries along with the size of the split ring 604 will, in certainembodiments, allow the designer to choose both the insertion anddesertion pressure of the cleat into the shoe. This is a useful propertyas it allows shoe designers to best match the ease of cleat extractionfrom the shoe against the fail safe properties required during its usein a selected shoe product. (i.e. football cleats vs. golf cleats).

The spring 604 and device receptacle 610 are designed to spread thepressure from the cleat 608 to the foot over a wider area (5:1) overcurrent metal treaded systems. Thus shoe sole polymers do not yield tothe improved cleat systems as do the current metal threaded studdedcleats. This improvement yields a considerably more comfortable shoeboth as purchased as well as over the life of the shoe. Injury to thefoot from excessive cleat pressure to the foot is significantlyminimized, if not eliminated.

As shown in FIG. 23, upon insertion, the outer diameter 632 of the post622 pushes the split ring spring 604 outward until the split ring spring604 is seated in the annular groove 628 of the post 622 when assembled.The restorative force of the split ring spring 604 around the groove 628of the device 608 holds the device 608 in place within the devicereceptacle 610. As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, in some embodiments, thedistal end 634 of the post 622 can be beveled as well, in order tofacilitate insertion and desertion of the cleat device 608 into thedevice receptacle. When assembled, the bottom face 660 of the post 622of the cleat device 608 rests against the housing lid 606. In someembodiments, the housing lid 606 can have a detent that is complementaryto the shape of the bottom face 660 of the post 622 of the cleat device608. The bottom face 660 of the post 622 of the cleat device 608 can beany shape, such as circular, oval, square, rectangular, etc. Preferably,the shape of the bottom face 660 of the post 622 of the device 608 andthe complementary detent in the housing lid 606 are asymmetrical, suchthat the cleat device 608 is less likely to rotate, and the cleat devicemay retain some, e.g., predetermined alignment with the shoe to which itis attached.

In some embodiments, the bottom portion of the device 608, e.g., thecleat, can include a hole 638 therethrough, to facilitate disassembly ofthe device 608 from the device receptacle 610.

The components of the device receptacle 610 can be made from anymaterial, such as rigid polymers, ceramics, stainless steel, composites,polymer coated metal, and the like. In some embodiments, the componentsof the housing 602, the split ring spring 604 and the housing lid 606are made from a rigid plastic material.

FIGS. 24A and 24B show a top view and a cross-sectional view,respectively, of an exemplary housing 602 used in the embodimentsdisclosed herein. The cross-sectional view illustrates the inner cavity602 which can have three layers 640, 642, 646, each layer having adifferent-sized diameter. The three layers 640, 642, 646 of the innercavity 618 are sized to fit the post 622 of the inserted device 608, thesplit ring spring (in expanded form) 604, and the housing lid, 606respectively. FIGS. 24A and 24B include various measurements, however,it will be understood that many other sizes and shapes of housing basescan be used in conjunction with the attachment mechanisms disclosedherein.

FIGS. 24C and 24D show a top view and a cross-sectional view,respectively, of an exemplary housing lid 606 with an aperture 626 usedin the embodiments disclosed herein. The diameter of the housing lid 606is the same as the diameter of the top layer 640 of the inner cavity618. In some embodiments, the thickness of the housing lid 606 is suchthat, when inserted into the housing 602, the top of the housing 602 andthe housing lid 606 are flush. FIGS. 24C and 24D include variousmeasurements, however, it will be understood that many other sizes andshapes of housing lids can be used in conjunction with the attachmentmechanisms disclosed herein.

FIGS. 24E and 24F show a top view and a cross-sectional view,respectively, of a split ring spring 604. The diameter of the split ringspring 604 smaller than the diameter of the middle layer 642 of theinner cavity 618, but larger than the diameter the bottom layer 644 ofthe inner cavity 618. The diameter of the hole 612 in the center of thesplit ring spring 604 is the same size as the diameter of the groove 628of the device post. 622, and can expand to the diameter of the post 632,upon insertion of the post 622 into the device receptacle 610. Asdiscussed above, the top 624 a and bottom, 624 b edges that define thehole 612 of the split ring spring 604 can be angled. The degree of theangle is complementary to the degree of the angles on the top 630 a andbottom 630 b edges of the groove 628 of the device post 622. FIGS. 24Eand 24F include various measurements, however, it will be understoodthat many other sizes and shapes of split ring springs can be used inconjunction with the attachment mechanisms disclosed herein. Forexample, the thickness of the ring 606 (and the corresponding groove 628on the post 622) can be varied, to provide for an increased or decreasedlocking force.

FIG. 24G shows a cross-sectional view of a cleat device 608. The bottomportion of the cleat device 616, which projects from the bottom of thesole of the shoe, can be any shape; such as, for example, thefrustro-concial shape depicted in the cleat device shown in FIG. 24G. Asdiscussed above, in some embodiments, the surface 660 of the bottomportion 622 of the cleat 608 that contacts the cleat receptacle 610assembly when the device is assembled, can be designed in any shape, andcan, in preferred embodiments, be complementary to a detent shape in thesurface of the housing lid 606 that rests against the surface 660 whenassembled. As shown in FIG. 24G, the top portion 622 of the cleat device608 has an annular groove 628 which is defined by angled edges 630 a,630 b. Preferably, the angle of the edges 630 a, 630 b of the annulargroove 628 are complementary to the angles defining the hole 612 of thesplit ring spring 604, and the thickness and length of the annulargroove 628 is such that the split ring spring 604 rests within theannular groove 628 when the cleat attachment device 600 is fullyassembled. In some embodiments, the diameter of the bottom portion thatis not defined by the annular groove (diameter of the outside edge ofthe post) 632 is the same as the diameter of the bottom layer 644 of theinterior cavity 618 of the housing 602, such that the bottom-mostportion of the bottom portion 634 of the cleat device rests within thethird layer 644 of the cavity 618 housing 602. The diameter 632 ofoutside edge of the post 622 is greater than the diameter of the hole612 of the split ring spring 604 when the split ring spring 604 is inits resting state, but is such that it can pass through the hole 612 ofthe split ring spring 604 during assembly, when the split ring spring604 is expanded.

FIG. 25 shows an exploded perspective view of a cleat assembly matrix650. In this embodiment, the sole of the shoe can comprise a firstportion 652 and a second portion 656 that can be removably attached tothe first portion 652. The first portion 652 of the sole is attached tothe bottom of the shoe body, and can have a plurality of cleat cavities654, wherein the cleat cavities are configured to receive a plurality ofcleat receptacles 610. The cleat receptacles 610 are fixed in the cleatcavities 654 of the first portion of the sole, 652 for example, by glue,or other means. The second portion of the sole 656 can contain aplurality of apertures 658 that are positioned in the same arrangementas the cleat cavities 654 in the first portion 652 of the sole. Aplurality of cleat devices 608 can be inserted through the apertures 658of the second portion of the shoe sole, such that the posts 622 of thecleat devices 608 project through the second portion of the sole 656 andare exposed. In this matter, the posts 622 are exposed for insertioninto the cleat receptacles 610. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 25, theplurality of posts 622 of the cleat devices 608 are received into thecleat receptacles 610 of the first portion of the sole 652, therebyattaching the second portion of the sole 656 with the cleat devices 608to the first portion of the sole 652 and shoe. A perspective view of anassembled cleat assembly matrix 620 is depicted in FIG. 26.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary device receptacle 610. Inone embodiment, the cleat receptacle 610 can include a housing 602comprised of two attached components 707(a) and 707(b) producing aninterior cavity 618 configured to receive a post 622. In accordance withthe embodiment shown in FIG. 27, the interior cavity 618 of the housing602 can be configured such that a post 622 sits fully within theinterior cavity 618. As illustrated in FIG. 27, the inner cavity 618which can have three layers 640, 642, 644, each layer having adifferent-sized diameter. The three layers 640, 642, 644 of the innercavity 618 are sized to fit the post 622 of the inserted device 608.

The cleat receptacle 610 having a detent 704 having a polygon shape(such as a square, rectangle, a triangle, or an octagon) to provide alocking mechanism to prevent rotation. The detent 704 can keep theinserted device 608 in proper alignment and prevent rotation. The detent704 is molded into the cleat receptacle 610 so that once the cleat 608is plugged into place it is aligned with the polygon detent 704. Thecleat receptacle 610 having a retention groove 708 configured to retainthe spring and spring housing firmly in place after over-molding intothe shoe sole. The cleat receptacle 610 having multiple attachment means710 to attach at least components 707(a) and 707(b) that makeup thehousing 602 in FIG. 27.

The cleat receptacle 610 may be constructed from two identicalcomponents 707(a) and 707(b), therefore requiring only one injectionmolded components. The split ring spring 604 may be placed into thecleat cavity 608 (for example, into layer 642) of the cleat receptacle610 prior to assembly. The cleat receptacle may be placed into sole of ashow (or cleat cavities 654) for the over-molding operation topermanently set the cleat receptacle 610 into place.

FIG. 28A is a diagram illustrating an exemplary cleat with a verticalextraction opening 716. In one embodiment, the cleat device 608 having apost 622 and a cleat 616. The cleat 622 configured to provide tractionand the post 622 configured to fit into the cleat receptacle 610 tosecurely lock the cleat device 608 into the cleat receptacle 610. Thecleat 616 can have a cone shape having a flat top, as shown in FIG. 28A,or an alterative shape such as cube, a pointed edge, a low profilecleat, etc. The vertical extraction opening 716 may permit specializeddevices to engage into the vertical extraction opening 716 and throughthe body of the cleat device 608 in order to permit removal of the cleatdevice 608. The vertical extraction opening 716, as shown in FIG. 28A,may be round and may extend from the cleat top and move downward intothe cleat body. The vertical extraction opening 716 may permit a insertpin (not shown), such as a rounded insert pin, to be inserted into thevertical extraction opening 716 in order the extract a cleat device 608from the cleat receptacle 610. The vertical extraction opening 716 islocated central and vertical through the cleat body. In one embodiment,the vertical extraction hole 716 starts at the top center of the cleatand ends several millimeters from the cleat bottom (not shown).

FIG. 28B is a diagram illustrating an exemplary cleat device 608 with ahorizontal extraction opening 638. In one embodiment, the cleat device608 having a post 622 and a cleat 616. The cleat 616 configured toprovide traction and the post 622 configured to fit into the cleatreceptacle 610 to securely lock the cleat device 608 into the cleatreceptacle 610. The cleat 616 can have a cone shape with a float top asshown in FIG. 28B, or an alternative shape such as a cube, a pointededge, a low profile cleat, etc. The cleat device 608 can have ahorizontal extraction opening 638 to permit use of a specialized devicethat engages into the side of the cleat through the horizontalextraction opening 638 and through the body of the cleat device 608 inorder to permit removal of the cleat device 608. The horizontal (orside) extraction opening 638 as shown in FIG. 28B, extends from thecleat side and extends through the cleat body. The horizontal extractionopening 638 may permit a insert pin (not shown), such as a roundedinsert pin, to be inserted into the horizontal extraction opening 638 inorder the extract the cleat device 608 from the cleat receptacle 610.

FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary vertical extractor device720. In one embodiment, the vertical extractor device 720 may have ahandle 722 configured to permit gripping to enable extraction of a cleatdevice 608 from a cleat receptacle 610. The handle 722, may have atubular gripping portion configured to permit angular rotation toextract the cleat device 608 from the device receptacle 610. The handle722 perpendicularly attached to a middle portion 723 at the midpoint ofthe handle 722. An insert pin 726 attached to the end of the middleportion 723 and configured to fit downward into a vertical extractionopening 716 of the cleat 616 to disengage the cleat device 608 from thecleat receptacle 610. The vertical extractor device 720 may also includea pocket 724 within the side of the handle 722 that will lock the cleat608 into place when placed over the cleat top 725 and pushed downwardinto the device receptacle 610. The vertical extraction device 720 maybe configured to disengage the cleat from the receptacle after insertionof the insert pin 726 into the vertical extraction opening 716, pushingthe pin 726 to the bottom of the cleat body and applying a downwardforce upon angular rotation of the handle 722. The pin 726 is then moved10 to 15 degrees off center axis and the post 622 releases from thespring 604. The vertical extraction device 720 disengages the cleat 608at a slight angle from its central axis thus allowing the spring 604 tobegin moving off the stem 622. In one embodiment, the verticalextraction device 720 permits the removal of low profile cleats (notshown) despite being worn down by abrasion.

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary horizontal extractordevice 730. In one embodiment, the horizontal extractor device 730having a tubular handle 732 to permit gripping to exert a reliable forceto extract the cleat device 608 from the device receptacle 610.Moreover, the handle 732 may be attached to a cylindrical head portion733 attached to a curved extended portion 735 having an insert pin 734.In one embodiment, the insert pin 734 may be configured to fit into aside extraction hole 638 parallel to the device receptacle 610 to permitextraction of the cleat device 608 from the cleat receptacle 610. Thehandle 732 may be configured to extract the cleat device 608 from thecleat receptacle 610 using a downward force. In one embodiment, theinsert pin 734 may be engaged into the horizontal extraction opening638, the handle 732 may be rotated perpendicular to the devicereceptacle 610 and leveraged downward to extract the cleat 608 bylifting the cleat 608 upward and away from the device receptacle 610. Inone embodiment, the insert pin 734 may be a round insert pin, and may beonly a few millimeters in diameter. The horizontal extraction device 730may also have a pocket 731 within the side of the handle 732 that willlock the cleat device 608 into place when placed over the top of thecleat device 608 and pushed downward into the device receptacle 610.

FIG. 31A is a front view of an exemplary low profile cleat 740. In oneembodiment, the low profile cleat 740 may have a top portion 742 and abottom portion (or post 622), as shown in FIG. 31A. The top portion 742may be configured to provide traction and resistance for side to sideslippage. The bottom portion (or post 622) is configured to securelylock the removable cleat device 608 into the device receptacle 610.

FIG. 31B is an ISO view of the exemplary low profile cleat 740 of FIG.31A. In one embodiment, the low profile cleat 740 may comprise a topportion 742 configured to provide traction having a surface 743 withmultiple channels, such as channel 746, a curved outer edge 741, and avertical extraction opening 716 extending from the top portion through asegment of the post 622. The surface 743 may be configured to be anyshape, such as, a circle, square, a triangle. The channels, such aschannel 746, extend outward from the vertical extraction opening 716 tothe curved outer edge 741 of the low profile cleat 740. The channelsextending outward from the opening 716 or central ring 745 may generatemultiple traction segments, such as traction segment 744, fitted on topof the surface 743.

FIG. 32A is a front view of an exemplary spike cleat 750. In oneembodiment, the spike cleat 750 may have a top portion (or cleat 616), abottom portion (or post 622), as shown in FIG. 32A. The top portion (orcleat 616) may be configured to provide traction and resistance for sideto side slippage. The bottom portion (or post 622) is configured tosecurely lock the removable cleat device 608 into the device receptacle610.

FIG. 32B is an ISO view of the exemplary spike cleat 750 of FIG. 32B. Inone embodiment, the top portion of the spike cleat 750 may have amultiple side arms (for example, side arm 752) configured to curveupward and around a central stub 758. The central stub 758 may bebeveled and may have a vertical extraction opening 716 extending fromthe top of the central stub 758 through a segment of the post 622. Themultiple side arms, such as side arm 752, may have a beveled edge,extend upwards, or have an L-shape, as illustrated in FIG. 32B.Moreover, each of the side arms may comprise an inner surface 757, anouter surface 755, at least two side surfaces (such as side surface756), a top surface 754, and an inner angled surface 753, as illustratedin FIG. 32B. The spike cleat 750 may be a two part construction with anacetyl polymer post 622 and a softer polyurethane top portion (or cleat616).

Additional Latching Systems

FIG. 33A is a diagram illustrating an exemplary latching system. Asdepicted in FIG. 33A, the latching system relies on the ability todesign a wide range of insertion and desertion forces between the post622 to the spring, split ring, or female receptacle 604. Changes to thedistal 634 on the post 622 and a corresponding change to the top edge624 a in the spring 604 can, in certain embodiments, modify the totalinsertion force required to engage the post 622 to be fastened into thespring 604. This modification may, in certain embodiments, besubstantial. Similarly, changes in degree of angle between the bottomedge 630 b on the post 622 with a corresponding change in bottom edge624 b on the spring 604 can, in certain embodiments, modify the totaldesertion force of the post 622 to be fastened. This modification may,in certain embodiments, be substantial. As the angles increase from 0 to90 degrees the force required to engage or disengage increases. Anglesapproaching 90 degrees make it impossible to either engage or disengagethe post 622 to be fastened while lower angles, preferably those lessthan 30, 25, 20 or 15 degrees make insertion and desertion forcerequired relatively small. Accordingly, insertion and desertion forcecan be controlled independently of each other. Changes in either angularedges 630 b or distal 634 of the post 622 control independently therange of forces available for either insertion or desertion whilechanges in the spring 604 control equally changes in insertion/desertionforce range. Similarly, changes in the tensile strength of the spring604 material have an equal change in the pressure range of both theinsertion/desertion forces. The multiplicity of methods to choose fromto control latching insertion and desertion forces allows considerablerange in latching applications and design freedom.

FIG. 33B is a diagram illustrating a detailed view of an exemplarylatching system. The angular edge 630 a and the distal 634, shown inFIG. 33B, may have different or identical angles. In one embodiment, asshow in FIG. 33B, the angular edge 630 b may have an angle equal to37.42 degrees, while the distal 634 may have an angle equal to 39.33degrees.

FIGS. 34A-34D are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of a split ring3400 configured to receive a post, not shown in the present figures, toform a latch connection created when the post is received at leastpartially within the split ring. The latch connection includes alongitudinal axis, a lateral axis extending normal to the longitudinalaxis, and a transverse axis extending normal to the longitudinal andlateral axes. The latch connection inhibits motion of the post and splitring relative to one another in substantially transverse and lateraldirections. The latch connection also secures the post and split ringtogether as to substantially longitudinal forces in a first directionbut is releasable as to substantially longitudinal forces in a seconddirection with the second direction being generally opposite the firstdirection. As discussed above, the force required to release the postand split ring from one another can vary from embodiment to embodiment.

The split ring 3400 can include a center hole or aperture 3401 extendingtherethrough and the center hole 3401 can be configured to receive atleast a portion of a post. The center hole 3401 includes an innersurface that comprises a first angled portion 3403, a second angledportion 3407, and a saddle portion 3405 disposed between the firstangled portion and the second angled portion. The saddle portion 3405preferably defines an inner diameter of the split ring 3400 and can beconfigured to engage an annular groove or similar structure in thereceived post.

The first and second angled portions 3403, 3407 can be configured tocontrol the insertion and desertion forces of the post as discussedabove. In general, the latch holding forces of the split ring as well asthe insertion and desertion forces are controlled by the angles betweenthe first and second angled portions 3403, 3407 and the saddle portion3405, the thickness and/or diameter of the split ring 3400, and thematerial(s) of the split ring 3400. In some embodiments, the first andsecond angled portions 3403, 3407 are of substantially the same sizesuch that the insertion and desertion forces are substantially equal. Inother embodiments, the acute angle between the saddle portion 3405 andthe first angled portion 3403 can be less than the acute angle betweenthe saddle portion 3405 and the second angled portion 3407 such that theforce required to insert a post, for example the post 622 schematicallyillustrated in FIG. 33A, into the split ring 3400 is less than (eitherslightly less than or substantially less than) the force required toremove the post from the split ring. In other embodiments, the splitring 3400 can be configured such that the desertion force is less than(either slightly less than or substantially less than) the insertionforce.

In some embodiments, the material(s) of the split ring 3400 is selectedto control the insertion and desertion force properties of the splitring. For example, the split ring 3400 can be constructed of any of avariety of rigid materials, known to those skilled in the art, toincrease the desertion force properties of the split ring.Alternatively, the split ring 3400 can be constructed of any number ofless rigid materials, known to those skilled in the art, to decrease thedesertion force properties of the split ring. In some embodiments, thesplit ring 3400 comprises metal, plastic, or other suitable materials. Anon-limiting list of example materials includes chrome vanadium, springsteels, 302 and 17-7 stainless steel, beryllium copper, terylliumcopper, phosphor bronze, or Nitinol, urethanes, polyurethanes,polyamides, nylons, copolymers, Acetal, Acetal homopolymer resins, andpolyurethanes.

Turning now to FIGS. 35A-38B, embodiments of split rings that arecoupled with one or more optional and optionally associated elastomericrings that surround, or are disposed on, at least a portion of the splitring are schematically illustrated. Elastomeric rings can be configuredto exert a consistent force on at least a portion of the split ringand/or a post received within the split ring to increase or maintain thespring torque and shock resistance of the split ring. In someembodiments, elastomeric rings can be placed over a portion or portionsof a split ring that has limited or no spring force to prevent unwantedrelease of a received post when the split ring undergoes suddenmechanical stress or shock. For example, elastomeric rings can act asshock absorbers to allow a split ring to maintain connective integritywhen a shock force is applied perpendicularly to the direction of theconnection. Elastomeric rings can be useful when the split ringcomprises a material that has limited or no spring force and was chosenfor other reasons, for example, conductivity, dielectric constant,lubricity, coefficient of thermal expansion, etc. The elastomeric ringscan comprise various suitable materials, non-limiting examples includingrubber, vulcanized rubbers, polymers, metals, plastics, elastomericmaterials, and composite materials.

FIGS. 35A and 35B are diagrams of an embodiment of a split ring 3500with an elastomeric ring 3510 disposed on the top surface of the splitring. As discussed above, the elastomeric ring 3510 can be configured toexert a substantially consistent force on a portion of a post receivedat least partially within the split ring 3500. In this embodiment, theelastomeric ring does not exert a force directly on the split ring 3500because it does not surround the split ring. However, the elastomericring 3510 can be used to maintain a connection between the split ring3500 and a post by applying a force on the post.

FIGS. 36A and 36B are diagrams of an embodiment of a split ring 3600with a first elastomeric ring 3610 a disposed on the top surface of thesplit ring and a second elastomeric ring 3610 a′ disposed on the bottomsurface of the split ring. The first and second elastomeric rings 3610a, 3610 a′ can be configured to exert substantially consistent forces onseparate portions of a post received at least partially within the splitring 3600. In some embodiments, the first and second elastomeric rings3610 a, 3610 a′ can be configured to exert or apply different forces ona post. The force exerted by an elastomeric ring can be configured byselecting the material(s) of the ring and the size of the ring. Forexample, the material(s) for an elastomeric ring can be selected basedon the elongation properties of any of the material(s), as are known tothose skilled in the art.

FIGS. 37A and 37B are diagrams of an embodiment of a split ring 3700with a first elastomeric ring 3710 a disposed on the top surface of thesplit ring and a second elastomeric ring 3710 a′ surrounding a portionof the split ring between the top surface and the bottom surface. Thefirst elastomeric ring 3710 a can be configured to exert a substantiallyconsistent force on a post received at least partially within the splitring 3700. Additionally, the second elastomeric ring 3710 a′ can beconfigured to exert a substantially consistent force on the portion ofthe split ring 3700 which it surrounds and engages. In this way, thesecond elastomeric ring 3710 a′ can be configured to further maintain orsupplement the spring force of the split ring 3700 a when a portion of apost is received therein.

FIGS. 38A and 38B are diagrams of an embodiment of a split ring 3800with a first elastomeric ring 3810 a disposed on the top surface of thesplit ring, a second elastomeric ring 3810 a′ surrounding a portion ofthe split ring between the top surface and the bottom surface, and athird elastomeric ring 3810 a″ disposed on the bottom surface of thesplit ring. The first and third elastomeric rings 3810 a, 3810 a″ can beconfigured to exert a substantially constant force on a post received atleast partially within the split ring 3800. Additionally, the secondelastomeric ring 3810 a′ can be configured to exert a substantiallyconsistent force on the portion of the split ring 3800 which itsurrounds and engages.

FIGS. 39A-39C are diagrams of an embodiment of a split ring 3900 with asplit ring assist member 3920. The split ring assist member 3920 cansurround at least a portion of the split ring 3900 between the top andbottom surfaces of the split ring 3900 and can be configured to increasethe overall spring tension forces of the split ring 3900. Increasing theoverall spring tension forces of the split ring 3900 can also increaseboth the insertion and desertion forces. Split ring assist members canbe used when the split ring 3900 material was chosen for materialproperties other than tension or spring constants, for example, for itslubricity characteristics or its elasticity properties. The split ringassist member 3920 can be configured to maintain the spring tensionforces of the split ring 3900 over a period of time. The split ringassist member can be formed of a material having a high spring value,for example, metal or plastic. Furthermore, the split ring assist member3920 can have various cross-sectional shapes, including for example,curvilinear shapes, polygonal shapes, round shapes, squares, rectangles,and irregular shapes.

FIGS. 40A-42B are diagrams illustrating additional embodiments of ringsconfigured to receive a post, not shown in the present figures, to forma latch connection therebetween. FIGS. 40A and 40B are diagramsillustrating an embodiment of a square shaped ring 4000 configured toreceive a post and form a latch connection. The square ring 4000 caninclude a center hole or aperture 4001 extending therethrough and thecenter hole 4001 can be configured to receive at least a portion of apost. The center hole 4001 includes an inner surface that comprises afirst angled portion 4003, a second angled portion 4007, and a saddleportion 4005 disposed between the first angled portion and the secondangled portion. The saddle portion 4005 can define an inner diameter ofthe split ring 4000 and can be configured to engage a correspondingangular groove in the received post.

The square ring 4000 can be continuous around the center hole 4001 or asshown in FIG. 41B, a square split ring 4100 can include a split out,gap, or discontinuity 4130. The split out, gap, or discontinuity 4130can be sized or dimensioned to allow a rigid split ring to flex or moveas a post is inserted therein. Accordingly, in some embodiments, ringsthat do not include a split out, gap, or discontinuity are formed fromelastomeric materials that stretch or flex as a post is inserted intothe center hole to form a latch. FIGS. 42A and 42B are diagramsillustrating another embodiment of a curvilinear ring 4200 that does notinclude a split out or discontinuity. In some embodiments, rings withoutsplit outs can be formed from urethane plastics or other suitablematerials that have favorable elongation characteristics.

FIGS. 43A-43D are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of a latch housing4350 that includes a split ring slot 4357 configured to receive a splitring or similar structure, not shown in the present figures. The latchhousing can be coupled with a first component that is configured to forma latch with a second component. For example, the latch housing 4350 canbe received in a piece of furniture that is configured to latch to asecond piece of furniture. In other embodiments, the latch housing 4350can be inset in a first medical component that is configured to engageand latch to a second medical component. In the illustrated embodiment,the latch housing 4350 has a circular cross-section. However, thecross-sectional shape of the latch housing can also be polygonal,curvilinear, or irregularly shaped.

The latch housing 4350 includes a split ring slot 4357 configured toreceive a split ring. Where a split ring has been inserted into thesplit ring slot 4357, a latch housing 4350 can be inserted into a recessor hole in a first component. For example, a wood, plastic, or metalpart, and a post can be inserted into the split ring through a housingaperture 4355 to couple a second component with the housing 4350 and thefirst component. In some embodiments, the housing aperture 4355 canextend normal to the split ring slot 4357 so that a post can be insertedinto the housing parallel to the top and bottom surfaces of the housing.In this way, the latch housing 4350 and split ring can be used as areplacement for a cam in a cam lock latching system. In otherembodiments, the housing aperture 4355 can extend in differentdirections but nevertheless provide access for a post to be insertedinto a split ring received within the split ring slot 4357.

FIGS. 44A-44D are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of a housing 4450that includes a built-in split ring 4400. In the illustrated embodiment,the housing 4450 and the split ring 4400 form a single unitary piece.This housing can be manufactured through art recognized molding methods,such as metal or plastic injection molding techniques. In otherembodiments, the housing 4450 and split ring 4400 can be part ofseparate pieces, suitable to be coupled together. The housing 4450 andthe split ring can be molded in place at the same time using known metalor plastic injection molding techniques. The housing 4450 can bereceived in a first component, for example, a first piece of furniture,such that a post can be inserted into the center hole 4401 of the splitring 4400 to form a latch connection between the split ring 4400 and thepost. In some embodiments, the split ring center hole 4401 can extendparallel to the top and bottom surfaces of the housing 4450 and thehousing can be used as a replacement for a cam in a cam lock latchingsystem.

FIGS. 45A-45C are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of a post 4522coupled with a rotatable wheel 4570. The post 4522 includes a distal tipwith a first angular edge 4534, a second angular edge 4530 disposedproximal to the first angular edge, and a transition portion 4532therebetween. As discussed above with reference to FIG. 33A, modifyingthe angle between the first angular edge 4534 and the longitudinal axisof the post 4522 can affect the force required to insert the post 4522into a split ring, for example the split ring schematically depicted inFIGS. 34A-34D. In some embodiments, the acute angle between the firstangular edge 4534 and the longitudinal axis of the post 4522 can beincreased to increase the insertion force required. Similarly, modifyingthe angle between the second angular edge 4530 and the longitudinal axisof the post 4522 can affect the force required to remove the post 4522from a split ring (e.g., the desertion force). In some embodiments, theacute angle between the second angular edge 4530 and the longitudinalaxis of the post 4522 can be increased to increase the desertion forcerequired to remove a received post.

The post 4522 preferably comprises a stem 4538 disposed proximal to thesecond angular edge 4530 and an annular groove 4536 disposed between thestem and the second angular edge. The annular groove 4536 can beconfigured to engage a split ring saddle, for example, the saddle 3405schematically depicted in FIG. 33A, to couple the post 4522 to the splitring and form a latch connection. Thus, the size and shape of theannular groove 4536 can be selected depending on the split ring(s) thepost 4522 is intended to engage.

The post 4522 is coupled with a wheel 4570 at the proximal end of thestem 4538. In some embodiments, the wheel can be a ball bearing wheelwith an inner rail 4571 coupled with the stem 4538, an outer rail 4575disposed radially from the inner rail, and a plurality of ball bearings4577 disposed between the inner rail and the outer rail. The wheel 4570can further include a bearing tray, not shown in the present figures,configured to support the ball bearings between the inner rail 4571 andouter rail 4573. In this way, the outer rail 4575 can rotate relative tothe inner rail 4571 by passing over the ball bearings disposedtherebetween.

The post 4522 can be coupled with a split ring or similar femalereceptacle (for example, a non-split ring receptacle) to form a latchconnection therebetween. In some embodiments, a split ring is configuredto be inset or is inset in a portion of a piece of furniture to beassembled. The post 4522 can be inserted into the split ring to providethe functionality of the wheel 4570 to the piece of furniture. Thus, thepost 4522 and wheel 4570 schematically illustrated in FIGS. 45A-45C canbe implemented in many applications, for example, drawer guide systems,ready-to-assemble furniture kits, computer keyboard slides, and otherapplications.

FIGS. 46A-46C are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of a latch housing4600 configured to receive a post to form a latch connection. The latchhousing 4600 includes a split ring 4610 disposed between the top surfaceand bottom surface of the housing. The split ring 4610 is disposed on aseat 4615 formed within the housing 4600. The seat 4615 is configured tosupport the split ring 4610 at a point between the top and bottomsurfaces of the housing 4600.

The latch housing 4600 includes an aperture or opening 4620 configuredto provide access for a post to the split ring 4610. The aperture 4620can comprise various cross-sectional shapes including polygonal shapes,hexagons, curvilinear shapes, and irregular shapes. The shape of theaperture 4620 can be configured to match the shape of a post intended tobe coupled to the split ring 4610. In some embodiments, a hexagonal postcan be inserted into a hexagonal aperture 4620 to inhibit the rotationof the received post relative to the latch housing 4600. In otherembodiments, a round post can be inserted into a hexagonal aperture 4620to allow the rotation of the received post relative to the latch housing4600.

The latch housing 4600 further includes attachment features 4630disposed on the exterior surface of the housing. The attachment features4630 can comprise barbs, tapered points, hooks, sharp points, detents,or similar structures and can be configured to grip an object that thehousing is placed in. For example, the housing 4600 can be inset withina recess or hole in a piece of ready-to-assemble furniture and theattachment features 4630 can be configured to discourage orsubstantially prevent the disengagement of the housing from the recessby gripping or frictionally engaging the piece of furniture. The housing4600 can be formed of various suitable materials, including preferably,but not limited to, plastics, metals, and/or high dielectric materials(for example, ceramics).

FIGS. 47A-47F are diagrams illustrating embodiments of posts configuredto engage at least one split ring to form a latch connectiontherebetween. FIG. 47A is a diagram of a doubled-ended post 4722 aconfigured to connect and engage female split rings to form two latchconnections. A first end 4729 a of the post 4722 a includes a firstangular edge 4734 a, a second angular edge 4732 a, and a transitionportion 4732 a disposed therebetween. The first end 4729 a of the post4722 a is connected to the stem 4738 a by an annular groove portion 4536a. A second end 4729 a′ of the post 4722 a includes a first angular edge4734 a′, a second angular edge 4732 a′, and a transition portion 4732 a′disposed therebetween. The second end 4729 a′ of the post 4722 a′ isconnected to the stem 4738 a by an annular groove portion 4536 a. Asdiscussed above with reference to FIGS. 33A and 45A-45C, the geometry ofthe first and second ends 4729 a, 4729 a′ can be selected to control theforces required to insert and remove the pin 4722 a from a given splitring or female receptacle. Similarly, the annular grooves 4736 a, 4736a′ can be configured to compliment and/or engage a split ring saddlewhen the post 4722 a forms a latch connection with a split ring orsimilar female receptacle.

The stem 4738 a can have any of various cross-sectional shapes,including preferably, but not limited to, polygonal shapes, hexagons,squares, curvilinear shapes, circles, and irregular shapes. For example,FIG. 47B is a diagram of a doubled-ended post 4722 b that issubstantially identical to the double-ended post 4722 a of FIG. 47Aexcept that the stem 4738 b in FIG. 47B is round instead of polygonal.The shape of the stem 4738 a can be selected to promote or inhibitrotation of the post 4722 a relative to a split ring, female receptacle,or housing.

FIG. 47C is a diagram of a post 4722 c that includes a housing 4700 c.The housing 4700 c can be inset in a recess to couple the post 4722 cwith another object, for example, a medical device or a piece ofready-to-assemble furniture. The housing 4700 a includes attachmentfeatures 4701 c disposed on the exterior of the housing. The attachmentfeatures 4701 c can comprise barbs, tapered points, hooks, sharp points,or similar structures and can be configured to frictionally engage anobject that the housing is placed in. In some embodiments, theattachment features 4701 c can be configured to prevent thedisengagement of the housing from a recess by frictionally engaging orgripping the inner surface(s) of the recess.

The post 4722 c includes a first end 4729 c disposed opposite thehousing and connected to the housing 4700 c by a stem 4738 c. A firstend 4729 c of the post 4722 c includes a first angular edge 4734 c, asecond angular edge 4732 c, and a transition portion 4732 c disposedtherebetween. The post 4722 c also includes an annular groove 4736 cdisposed between the first end 4729 c and the stem 4738 c. The stem 4738c can comprise various cross-sectional shapes, including, but notlimited to, polygonal shapes, hexagons, squares, curvilinear shapes,circles, and irregular shapes. For example, FIG. 47D is a diagram of apost 4722 d that includes a housing 4700 d that is similar to the post4722 c of FIG. 47C except that the stem 4738 in FIG. 47D is roundinstead of polygonal. The shape of the stem 4738 d can be selected topromote or inhibit rotation of the post 4722 d relative to a split ring,female receptacle, or housing. For example, if the post 4722 d isintended to be received within a hexagonal channel in another housing,the stem 4738 d can be polygonal to inhibit rotation of the post 4722 drelative to the housing or can be round to allow rotation of the postrelative to the housing.

FIG. 47E is a diagram of a post 4722 e that includes a housing 4700 e.The post 4722 e includes a first end 4729 e with a distal first angledportion 4734 e, a rounded portion 4733 e disposed proximal to the firstangled portion, a transition portion 4732 e disposed proximal to therounded portion, and a second angled portion 4730 e disposed proximal tothe transition portion. The acute angles formed between the first angledportion 4734 e and the second angled portion 4730 e can affect theforces required to insert and remove the post 4722 e from a given splitring or female latch receptacle. The curvature or shape of the roundedportion 4733 e can also affect the force required to insert the post4722 e into a given split ring or female latch receptacle.

The post also includes an annular groove 4736 e disposed proximal to thefirst end 4729 e. The annular groove 4736 e can be configured to receivea portion of a split ring to seat the post 4722 e relative to the splitring and form a latch connection therebetween. A stem 4738 is disposedbetween the groove 4736 e and the housing 4700 e. As discussed abovewith reference to FIGS. 47A-47D, the shape of the stem 4738 e can varydepending on the shape of the housing, split ring, or female receptaclethat the post 4722 e is intended to be inserted into and the intendedlatch connection (e.g., fixed or rotatable).

The housing 4700 e is longer than the housings depicted in FIGS. 47C and47D, and the attachment features 4701 c are deeper or more pronouncedthan the attachment features depicted in FIGS. 47C and 47D. The deeperattachment features 4701 e may be preferable in circumstances where thehousing 4700 e is inset in a recess within a lower density material, forexample, low density press board. The housing 4700 e can also include aslot 4711 e configured to provide some flexibility to the exterior ofthe housing. FIG. 47F is a diagram of a post 4722 f that includes ahousing 4700 f that is substantially similar to the housing shown inFIG. 47E. The housing 4700 f does not include a slot and has slightlydifferent dimensions than the housing in FIG. 47E.

FIGS. 48A-48C are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of a post 4822coupled with a wheel castor 4870. The post 4822 includes a distal tipwith a first angular edge 4834, a second angular edge 4830 disposedproximal to the first angular edge, and a transition portion 4832disposed therebetween. The post 4822 further comprises a stem 4838disposed proximal to the second angular edge 4830 and an annular groove4836 disposed between the stem and the second angular edge.

The post 4822 is coupled with a wheel castor 4870 at the proximal end.Most existing wheel castor products utilize split compression ringswhich result in very unstable connections which often lead to wheelcastors falling out of their intended housings. The wheel castor 4870can be coupled with a housing by the post 4822 without the use of asplit compression ring resulting in a more stable and reliableconnection. Any of the posts or female receptacles disclosed herein canbe combined with common hardware (e.g., ball bearing wheels or castors)to establish secure and reliable latch connections between two or morecomponents.

FIGS. 49A-50C are diagrams illustrating embodiments of posts coupledwith housing barrels. FIGS. 49A-49C illustrate a first embodiment of apost 4922, coupled with a housing 4900, positioned in this embodiment atthe proximal end of the post. The post 4922 extends from a side of thehousing 4900 and the housing includes attachment features 4901 disposedon the sides. The attachment features 4901 are preferably configured tofrictionally engage the surface of a recess that the housing isdeposited in. In some embodiments, the attachment features 4901 comprisebarbs or tapered points configured to prevent the removal of the housing4900 from a recess. The housing 4900 includes face bores 4955 disposedin the bottom face of the housing. As shown in FIG. 49C, the top face ofthe housing 4900 is a flat surface. The post 4922 includes a round stem4938. As shown in FIGS. 50A-50C, the stem can have any of variousdifferent cross-sectional shapes including hexagons, polygonal shapes,curvilinear shapes, and irregular shapes.

FIGS. 51A-51C are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of a housing 5100that has attachment features 5001 disposed on the sides. The housing5100 also includes an opening 5107 configured to allow access to a postor similar male component to access a split ring or female receptacleembedded within the housing 5100. Many furniture manufacturers constructfurniture components with only lateral and longitudinal (e.g., x and y)access to the component being cut, drilled, or otherwise manipulated.Accordingly, these manufacturers cannot drill or form bore holes in thesides of the products. The embodiments schematically depicted in FIGS.49A-51C can be installed into holes or recesses located on the faces ofparts or components. In one example, a hole or recess can be drilled orrouted at the edge of a face of apart in order to expose either a malepost or a female receptacle to form a latch connection between twocomponents.

FIGS. 52A-52D are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of a housing 5200.The housing 5200 can include an upper portion 5260 and a lower portion5262. In some embodiments, the upper portion 5260 can have a diameterthat is greater than the lower portion 5262. The upper portion 5262 caninclude attachment features 5201 surrounding the exterior of the housing5200. The attachment features 5201 can be configured to frictionallyengage a surface, for example, to secure the housing 5200 within arecess in a part of component.

The lower portion 5260 can include a split or gap that divides theportion 5260 into two portions, preferably halves 5224 a, 5224 b. Thetwo halves, as depicted for this embodiment, 5224 a, 5224 b can define achannel or aperture 5240 configured to receive a portion of a post orsimilar male latch component. The split can allow the halves 5224 a,5224 b to expand about the longitudinal axis of the channel 5240 when aportion of a post or similar structure is inserted therein. Thisconfiguration can allow the halves 5224 a, 5224 b to frictionally engageor grip the received post. The lower portion 5260 can also include asplit ring 5210 formed therein. The split ring 5210 and the housing 5200can be integral or separate. In one embodiment, the split ring 5210 andhousing 5200 are molded as one piece.

FIGS. 53A-53C are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of a post 5322that includes a face element 5390 disposed on the proximal end of thepost. The post 5322 can be used to hold down elements that requirefrequent removability. For example, the post 5322 can be used to pin orhold materials to a piece of low density material that cannot be usedwith a male stem with barbed detents or features. As shown by thefigures, the posts and female receptacles disclosed and described hereincan be used in a variety of applications. For example, the posts andfemale receptacles can be used in ready-to-assemble furnitureconnectors, furniture drawer assembly systems, furniture drawer slidesystems, snap-on drawer pulls, door handles, door hinges, other doorhardware, ready-to-assemble or previously assembled cabinets, includinggarage, kitchen, and/or closet cabinets, ready-to-assemble or previouslyassembled displays, including point of sale, shown displays, and/oradvertising displays, outdoor decking and fencing systems, automotiveinteriors, including inside and out side trim pieces, lamp housing, anddoor panels, automotive tire connectors capable of replacing bolt onmethods, military applications including applications for tool-less andquick assembly/disassembly of equipment, space applications includingreplacing requirement to anchor astronauts to overcome torque in zerogravity when turning screw or bolts when replacing spaceship components,orthopedic applications including spinal and knee applications,electrical connectors, shutters, window frames, panel systems forconstruction, mobile homes, aircraft interiors, and automotiveinteriors, and/or pre-fabricated housing including snap together wallsystems, doors, fascias, plumbing, and electrical applications. In theelectrical connector applications, the post and receptacle can be madefrom conductive materials and the latch connection housings can be madefrom non-conductive materials. Benefits of these configurations includethe ability to clamp on to connector elements for continuous positiveelectrical contact while providing no electrical disconnect duringmechanical stresses (for example, vibration, shear, or tension).

The above description is given by way of example, and not limitation.Given the above disclosure, one skilled in the art could devisevariations that are within the scope and spirit of the inventiondisclosed herein. Further, the various features of the embodimentsdisclosed herein can be used alone, or in varying combinations with eachother and are not intended to be limited to the specific combinationdescribed herein. Thus, the scope of the claims is not to be limited bythe illustrated embodiments.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been describedabove, it should be understood that they have been presented by way ofexample only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams maydepict an example architectural or other configuration for theinvention, which is done to aid in understanding the features andfunctionality that can be included in the invention. The invention isnot restricted to the illustrated example architectures orconfigurations, but the desired features can be implemented using avariety of alternative architectures and configurations. Indeed, it willbe apparent to one of skill in the art how alternative functional,logical or physical partitioning and configurations can be implementedto implement the desired features of the present invention. In addition,a multitude of different constituent module names other than thosedepicted herein can be applied to the various partitions. Additionally,with regard to flow diagrams, operational descriptions and methodclaims, the order in which the steps are presented herein shall notmandate that various embodiments be implemented to perform the recitedfunctionality in the same order unless the context dictates otherwise.

Although the invention is described above in terms of various exemplaryembodiments and implementations, it should be understood that thevarious features, aspects and functionality described in one or more ofthe individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to theparticular embodiment with which they are described. These exampleembodiments may instead be applied, alone or in various combinations, toone or more of the other embodiments of the invention. This is truewhether or not such embodiments are described and whether or not suchfeatures are presented as being a part of a described embodiment. Thus,the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited byany of the above-described exemplary embodiments.

Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unlessotherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposedto limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” shouldbe read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term“example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item indiscussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof, the terms “a” or“an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more,” or thelike; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,”“standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construedas limiting the item described to a given time period or to an itemavailable as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompassconventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may beavailable or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, wherethis document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known toone of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass thoseapparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in thefuture.

A group of items linked with the conjunction “and” should not be read asrequiring that each and every one of those items be present in thegrouping, but rather should be read as “and/or” unless expressly statedotherwise. Similarly, a group of items linked with the conjunction “or”should not be read as requiring mutual exclusivity among that group, butrather should also be read as “and/or” unless expressly statedotherwise. Furthermore, although items, elements or components of theinvention may be described or claimed in the singular, the plural iscontemplated to be within the scope thereof unless limitation to thesingular is explicitly stated.

The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “atleast,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instancesshall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or requiredin instances where such broadening phrases may be absent. The use of theterm “module” does not imply that the components or functionalitydescribed or claimed as part of the module are all configured in acommon package. Indeed, any or all of the various components of amodule, whether control logic or other components, can be combined in a.single package or separately maintained and can further be distributedacross multiple locations.

Additionally, the various embodiments set forth herein are described interms of exemplary block diagrams, flow charts and other illustrations.As will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art afterreading this document, the illustrated embodiments and their variousalternatives can be implemented without confinement to the illustratedexamples. For example, block diagrams and their accompanying descriptionshould not be construed as mandating a particular architecture orconfiguration.

1. A latching system comprising a female receptacle and a post: thefemale receptacle comprising a center aperture extending through thefemale receptacle in a direction substantially parallel to alongitudinal axis of the receptacle, a first portion defining a surfacewithin the center aperture, wherein the first portion forms a firstacute angle with the longitudinal axis of the female receptacle, asecond portion defining a surface within the center aperture, whereinthe second portion forms a second acute angle with the longitudinal axisof the female receptacle, and a saddle portion disposed between thefirst portion and the second portion; and the post having a longitudinalaxis, the post comprising a first angular edge, wherein the firstangular edge forms a third acute angle with the longitudinal axis of thepost, a second angular edge disposed proximal to the first angular edge,wherein the second angular edge forms a fourth acute angle with thelongitudinal axis of the post, a groove disposed proximal to the secondangular edge, and a stem disposed proximal to the groove, wherein thestem and the distal end of the second angular edge each have a greatermaximum lateral thickness than the groove, wherein the female receptacleis configured to receive at least some of the post such that the groovereceives at least some of the saddle portion, and wherein the first,second, third, and fourth acute angles are configured to control theforce required to insert the post into the female receptacle and theforce required to remove the post from the female receptacle.
 2. Thelatching system of claim 1, wherein the groove is an annular groove. 3.The latching system of claim 1, wherein a region of the first portion isconfigured to engage a region of the second angular edge when the femalereceptacle receives at least some of the post.
 4. The latching system ofclaim 1, wherein the first acute angle is different than the secondacute angle.
 5. The latching system of claim 4, wherein the first acuteangle is less than the second acute angle.
 6. The latching system ofclaim 1, wherein the third acute angle is different than the fourthacute angle.
 7. The latching system of claim 6, wherein third acuteangle is less than the fourth acute angle.
 8. The latching system ofclaim 1, wherein the post further comprises a rounded portion disposedbetween the first angular edge and the second angular edge.
 9. Thelatching system of claim 1, wherein the female receptacle comprises aring.
 10. The latching system of claim 9, wherein the female receptaclecomprises a split ring.
 11. The latching system of claim 1, wherein thefemale receptacle is coupled to a housing, wherein the housing includesa channel configured to provide the post access to the center apertureof the female receptacle.
 12. The latching system of claim 11, whereinthe housing comprises attachment features disposed on an exteriorsurface of the housing.
 13. The latching system of claim 11, wherein thecross-sectional shape of the channel is configured to inhibit rotationof the post relative to the female receptacle when a portion of the postis received by the female receptacle.
 14. The latching system of claim13, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the stem is polygonal.
 15. Thelatching system of claim 13, wherein the cross-sectional shape of thestem is curvilinear.
 16. The latching system of claim 1, furthercomprising an elastomeric ring configured to surround at least a portionof the post when a portion of the post is received within the femalereceptacle.
 17. The latching system of claim 1, wherein the centeraperture has a polygonal cross-sectional shape.
 18. The latching systemof claim 1, wherein the center aperture has a curvilinearcross-sectional shape.
 19. The latching system of claim 1, wherein thepost is coupled with a housing comprising attachment features.
 20. Amethod of forming a latch connection between a first object and a secondobject, the method comprising: providing the female receptacle and postof claim 1; coupling the female receptacle with the first object;coupling the post with the second object; and inserting at least some ofthe post into the center aperture of the female receptacle such that thegroove receives at least at least some of the saddle portion. 21.-31.(canceled)